AA ATHENS VISITING SCHOOL 2015 / SYMMETRY SENTIENCE IN COLLABORATION WITH AKTO

 

In 2015, the AA Athens Visiting School initiates its’ agenda to challenge the phenomenon of perceptual constancy through the design of architectural prototypical families. In line with the basic principles of the Gestalt principles, a diversity of shapes and sizes models will be designed through means of digital computation. Various morphologies will be derived through a bottom-up approach via various coding techniques. To bridge the gap between the digital and physical aspect of the design iterations, AA Athens makes use of digital fabricating machines to produce its’ architectural prototypes and adds mechanics to amplify their communicative characteristics. A complete 1:1 scale structure will be constructed, enabling interaction via sight, hearing and touch as a result of a series of initial testing models. These proposals will be formulated through the combination of different design software.

 

The programme is organized in a two-stage process:

 

Stage 1: Participants gain an understanding of formation processes in nature, coupled with core concepts related to design complexity. During this stage, basic and advanced tutorials on generative design algorithms and analysis tools will be provided. Building on its core methodology from its previous versions, AA Athens VS will perform as a team-based programme promoting collaboration and research. Participants will be introduced to advanced fabrication techniques. 

 

Stage 2: Participants propose design interventions based on the skills and knowledge gained during the first stage. Study models of various scales will be produced, leading to the fabrication and assembly of a full scale working prototype which unifies the design goals of the programme. 

 

The design agenda of AA Athens is linked to the AA Istanbul Visiting School, thus directly creating feedback on one another, allowing participation in either one or both Programmes.

 

Eligibility 

The workshop is open to architecture and design students and professionals worldwide.

 

Participants receive the AA Visiting School Certificate with the completion of the Programme. 

 

 

 

Alexandros Kallegias (AA Athens Visiting School Programme Director):